Three-year-olds are gaining in stamina as they grow, but they still have a fairly small window when they're energised and contented and not hungry or tired. For most children this age, "happy hour" falls in the mid-morning or mid-afternoon.

What's the ideal time of day for my three-year-old's birthday party?

All children are different. Even if yours is a livewire 24 hours a day, bear in mind that some of his playmates may not share his energy levels. It's best to err on the cautious side and pick a time to suit the sleepyheads.

My son is at nursery five mornings a week. Would an afternoon party be okay?

If your child is at nursery most mornings, a pre-lunch party might not be an option.

Those three-year-olds who are still napping at lunchtimes usually get a second wind in the afternoon. Around 3pm to 4.30pm is a good slot.

This can be problematic for parents who have to pick up older siblings from school, though. They may need to duck out and leave you in charge of their child for a while. If that's the case, make sure you have plenty of relatives or family friends on hand to help you supervise all your little guests.

My child's birthday falls during the week, but I'd like to have the party at the weekend. Should we do it twice?

If your child and his friends are at different nursery sessions during the week, a weekend party can be a sensible option.

A Saturday or Sunday party means you can invite older siblings or cousins who are at school Monday to Friday. You can also rope in friends and relatives to help, without anyone needing to take a day off work.

You needn't plan a midweek celebration as well, unless you particularly want to. Your child won't actually know when his actual birthday falls, and will be happy to celebrate on whichever day you suggest.

That said, if you feel uncomfortable pulling the wool over his eyes, you could always let him open a few family presents on his actual birthday. Then explain that his friends will be coming to say happy birthday at the weekend. He won't expect more than that.

How long should my three-year-old's birthday party last?

An hour to an hour and a half will probably be all that children of this age can cope with. Many will find the noise and excitement gets a bit much after this length of time, especially if they're shy or sensitive.

If you're planning on a longer party, make the last half-hour a winding-down session. Put out beanbags or cushions for guests to lounge on, and tell them some stories. Or put on a music CD some music and have a sing-a-long.

Be prepared for your own child to have a meltdown at some point. Three-year-olds can be territorial about their possessions, and having lots of children on their home turf can be stressful for them. You might want to put some of your child's favourite toys in cupboards so no one else can get at them.

However long the party lasts, don't forget to schedule toilet breaks for your guests. If they're having fun, many children this age will simply forget they need to go until it's too late!

Last reviewed: March 2013

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